A cigar-shaped, silver-grey, wingless
insect about 12mm long, found in damp areas
of kitchens and bathrooms. Nocturnal in
habit, but often trapped in baths, basins
or chinaware as it cannot climb the smooth
surfaces. Moves quickly and has three long
bristles at the tail end. Occasionally damages
paper but feeds on residues or starchy substances
such as glues, wallpaper paste and carbohydrate
food debris. It may indicate damp conditions
which need attention. Eggs are laid in cracks
and crevices and the nymphs grow by an indefinite
number of moults. Can grow a new leg if
they lose one. Adults can live for over
three years. A closely related species,
the Firebrat, is flatter and speckled, without
the metallic appearance, and favours hot,
dry situations, but can still be destroyed
in the same way as its cousin.
